System Overview
| Product Name | ExpressVote XL |
|---|---|
| Vendor | Election Systems & Software (ES&S) |
| Version | EVS 6.0.2.1 |
| System Type | Full-Face Universal Voting System |
| Deployment | Air-Gapped (No Network Connection) |
| Units Deployed | 500+ units across Northampton County |
| Certification | EAC Certified, PA Department of State Certified |
| Usage | Sole polling place voting system |
Hardware Specifications
Voting Workflow
Voter authentication at poll book
Full ballot on 32" screen
Touch to select candidates
Paper record printed
Review through window
Security Features
Encryption & Digital Signatures
Election programming and vote data are encrypted and digitally signed to verify authenticity and prevent tampering.
Secure Boot
System uses Secure Boot and application allowlisting to verify only certified OS, software, and firmware are running.
Self-Diagnostic Tests
At startup, the unit performs comprehensive diagnostic tests to verify internal functionality and alerts users of any errors.
Detailed Audit Logs
Each unit generates detailed audit logs of all actions and events. Vote data is digitally signed as committed to memory.
Tamper-Evident Design
Physical security features with tamper-evident seals and locked access to internal components.
Air-Gapped Operation
Machines operate without any network connection, preventing remote attacks and ensuring vote integrity.
Accessibility Features
The ExpressVote XL is designed to provide accessible, independent voting for all voters regardless of ability.
Game controller-style console with tactile buttons
Headphone support for visually impaired voters
Enlarged text display option
Alternative color schemes for visibility
Support for breath-controlled devices
Alternative input for dexterity impairments
Paper Ballot Record
Voter-Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)
- ✓ Thermal summary card printed for each vote
- ✓ Clear window allows voter to review printed choices
- ✓ Paper record secured inside attached module
- ✓ Human-readable text + machine-readable barcodes
- ✓ System scans barcode to verify no printing errors
- ✓ "No selection" printed for skipped contests
- ✓ Paper record not directly accessible to voters
Known Concerns
Security researchers have identified that physical access to voting machines could potentially allow tampering. Mitigation: Strict chain of custody, tamper-evident seals, and poll worker oversight.
As with all electronic voting systems, supply chain security is a concern. Mitigation: Vendor certification, component verification, and pre-election testing.
During 2024 elections, ES&S machines in Cambria County had ballot scanning issues due to a "ballot printing error", causing voter confusion and long lines. This was a localized incident addressed by poll workers.
Pennsylvania Deployment
Certification Status
- ✓ EAC federally certified
- ✓ PA Department of State certified
- ✓ Meets PA election code requirements
- ✓ Northampton County certified
County Usage
- ✓ Sole polling place voting system
- ✓ All precincts equipped
- ✓ ADA-compliant stations at all locations
- ✓ Logic & accuracy testing before each election